St. James: Wings will visit White House before 09

The Detroit Free Press's Helene St. James says that the Detroit Red Wings will make the traditional Stanley Cup champion's visit to the White House before the end of George W. Bush's term as president:

October 1, Detroit Free Press: The Wings likely will be visiting the White House before the year is out. Wings spokesman John Hahn said President George W. Bush called team owner Mike Ilitch the morning after the Wings won the Stanley Cup (the two know each other from baseball), and that Bush is keen to have the Wings in for the traditional championship visit. The Wings play in Washington at the end of January, and while that would be a more convenient date for them, it's also unlikely the new president will be lining up sports teams 11 days into his administration.